The tragic crash of Jeju Air flight 7C 2216 at South Korea’s Muan International Airport has brought bird strikes into the global spotlight. In the immediate aftermath, air traffic controllers revealed they had warned the flight crew of bird strike risks just moments before the crash. One of the surviving crew members also reportedly mentioned a bird strike as a possible cause.
The Boeing 737-800, en route from Bangkok to Muan, was carrying 181 passengers when it crash-landed on its belly. The aircraft skidded off the runway, collided with a wall, and erupted into flames. Only two crew members survived, making this South Korea’s deadliest aviation disaster in over two decades. Videos from the scene showed the plane ablaze, with black smoke billowing into the sky. Witnesses described hearing a loud bang followed by a series of explosions.
Bird Strike?
Muan International Airport, where the crash occurred, is notorious for its bird strike incidents. Between 2019 and August of this year, it reported the highest rate of bird strikes among South Korea’s regional airports—0.09% of flights compared to the 0.018% at Gimpo Airport. Experts cite the airport’s proximity to coastal areas and fields as a primary risk factor. The rise in bird strikes nationwide, linked to changing migratory patterns and climate change, has underscored the urgent need for advanced mitigation technologies like AI and radar monitoring.
As investigations continue, the global aviation community is left grappling with questions about bird strike prevention and safety protocols. The pilot had issued a Mayday call two minutes after the bird strike warning, and the aircraft attempted to land from an alternate direction. However, the landing gear failed, resulting in a fiery crash.
Sri Lanka’s Condolance
In a heartfelt gesture, the Sri Lankan government extended its condolences to South Korea and the victims’ families. In a statement from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sri Lanka expressed “deep sadness” over the tragic loss of life. As a nation that values its longstanding ties with South Korea, Sri Lanka emphasized solidarity during this time of mourning.
While the investigation may take years to conclude, the devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers posed by bird strikes. For Sri Lanka, the tragedy highlights a shared sense of loss and urges international cooperation to address these growing aviation risks.
Bird strikes are common in airports and approximately about 100 bird strikes are reported in Sri Lanka. Most incidents are reported close to the runaway of Matthala airport
